Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs are a fun and flavorful recipe that brings together juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful veggies on a skewer. Perfect for grilling or baking, these kabobs are ideal for dinner gatherings or outdoor BBQ parties. The combination of savory teriyaki sauce and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these kabobs come together in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The teriyaki marinade infuses the chicken with delicious flavors, making each bite a treat.
- Versatile Options: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or substitute proteins based on your preference.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive BBQ, these kabobs fit right in.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh veggies, this meal is both tasty and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Small saucepan
- Large Ziploc bag
- Grill or oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for holding all the delicious ingredients together while they cook evenly.
- Small saucepan: Used to prepare the teriyaki marinade quickly and efficiently.
- Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken without any mess, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Grill or oven: Provides the ideal method for cooking kabobs to achieve that perfect char and flavor.
Ingredients
Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs are a fun and flavorful recipe for the grill (or oven) for dinner or a BBQ party!
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated (or sub 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger))
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Kabobs
- 2 lbs. boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cut in 1-inch cubes)
- 1 lb. package of cooked turkey rope sausage (cut into 1-inch chunks (see notes))
- 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 small red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 small green bell pepper (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1/2 medium red onion (cut into 1-inch chunks)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Combine all marinade ingredients in a small saucepan.
1. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Reserve about 3 tablespoons for basting.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken pieces in a large Ziploc bag.
1. Pour in the teriyaki marinade (except for reserved sauce) and toss well to coat all pieces evenly.
2. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; longer is better if you have time.
Step 3: Soak Skewers
While the chicken marinates, soak your skewers in water.
– Use an 8×8 pan filled with about half an inch of water to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Step 4: Preheat Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat while you prepare the kabobs.
Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
Thread marinated chicken, peppers, pineapple, and sausage onto soaked skewers in any order you like.
Step 6: Grill Kabobs
Place kabobs on the preheated grill.
– Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and veggies are softened.
– Brush with reserved teriyaki sauce towards the end of cooking or serve it on the side as a dip.
Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs!
How to Serve Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs
Serving teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive BBQ party. Here are some creative and delicious serving suggestions to complement this flavorful dish.
Pair with Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant flavor of jasmine rice pairs well with the sweet and savory notes of the kabobs.
- Fried Rice: Add some veggies and soy sauce for a quick fried rice dish that makes for a hearty meal alongside the kabobs.
Add Fresh Salads
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy salad made from cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the grilled kabobs.
- Cucumber Salad: Lightly seasoned cucumbers in vinegar offer a cool palate cleanser that balances the rich flavors of the teriyaki chicken.
Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Extra Teriyaki Sauce: Serve the reserved marinade for dipping to enhance each bite with more flavor.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds an extra kick and sweetness that complements the teriyaki chicken perfectly.
How to Perfect Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs
Perfecting your teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs is easy with a few handy tips. These tricks will help you achieve mouthwatering results every time.
- Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible.
- Use Soaked Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Cut Ingredients Evenly: Ensure all ingredients are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking on the grill.
- Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve nice grill marks and prevents sticking, leading to perfectly cooked kabobs.
- Rotate Regularly: Turn the kabobs frequently while grilling to ensure all sides cook evenly and prevent burning.
- Check Doneness with Thermometer: Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs
Complementing teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs with the right side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Noodles: These buttery noodles tossed with garlic and herbs make a delicious addition alongside your kabobs.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition when grilled alongside your kabobs.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the savory flavors of teriyaki chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a nutritious option that complements the sweet-and-salty profile of the meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that harmonizes with the flavors of teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch and can be easily prepared in the oven or on the grill.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not marinating long enough: Skipping the marinade or rushing it can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for deeper flavor.
- Using dry skewers: If you don’t soak wooden skewers, they can burn on the grill. Always soak them in water for about 30 minutes before use.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Packing ingredients too tightly can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between items for better heat circulation.
- Skipping basting: Not basting with the reserved teriyaki sauce can result in drier kabobs. Brush them during grilling or serve the sauce on the side.
- Ignoring vegetable size: Cutting vegetables too small can lead to overcooking while larger pieces may not cook through. Stick to uniform 1-inch chunks for even cooking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs
- Place cooled kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them loosely. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure my Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs are juicy?
To keep your kabobs juicy, make sure to marinate your chicken well and avoid overcooking them on the grill.
Can I substitute other proteins in Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs?
Yes! You can use shrimp, beef, or tofu as alternatives to chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What vegetables pair well with Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs?
Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini all complement this dish nicely. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!
How long do Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs take to cook?
Grilling usually takes about 10-12 minutes over medium heat, depending on your grill’s temperature and size of the pieces.
Final Thoughts
Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit any taste preference. Perfect for summer grilling or family dinners, this recipe ensures everyone will enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite! Give it a try and make it your own!
Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
Teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any gathering or family dinner. These kabobs combine tender, marinated chicken, juicy pineapple chunks, and colorful vegetables, all grilled to perfection. The rich teriyaki sauce enhances each ingredient, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a cozy night at home, these kabobs will impress everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, they make for a hearty meal that your family will ask for again and again.
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb cooked turkey sausage
- 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple
- 1 small red bell pepper
- 1 small green bell pepper
- ½ medium red onion
- Marinade: soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, water
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine marinade ingredients and bring to a boil over medium heat. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Let cool slightly.
- In a large Ziploc bag, add chicken pieces and pour in marinade (reserve some for basting). Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Soak skewers in water to prevent burning.
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Thread marinated chicken, sausage, pineapple, and vegetables onto soaked skewers.
- Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through (165°F). Brush with reserved marinade before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg